Explore the Red Sea to the Mediterranean: How Aroya Cruises Became a Must-Experience Voyage for Global Travelers in Its First Year

Published on December 19, 2025

Saudi Arabia’s first homegrown cruise line, Aroya Cruises, has made a remarkable debut by carrying over 140,000 passengers in its inaugural year. This achievement positions the Kingdom as an emerging destination for cruise tourism, offering travelers from across the globe an exciting new way to explore the region.

Launched in December 2024 under the guidance of Cruise Saudi and backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, Aroya Cruises is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify tourism and enhance the country’s global travel appeal. The cruise line has successfully blended luxury, adventure, and cultural experiences, attracting both first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers.

A New Era in Saudi Cruise Tourism

Aroya Cruises is designed to reflect Arabian hospitality at sea, combining international cruise standards with regional cultural touches. The ship accommodates more than 3,300 passengers in luxury cabins and balcony rooms, offering modern amenities, elegant dining options, and a range of entertainment suitable for all age groups.

Passengers enjoy everything from live performances and cultural shows to wellness and spa facilities. Families, couples, and solo travelers can all find tailored experiences on board, making it a versatile choice for global travelers seeking both leisure and cultural immersion.

Routes and Destinations

During its first year, Aroya Cruises connected the Red Sea with the Mediterranean, giving travelers unique itineraries that included both sun-soaked coastal cities and historic ports. Red Sea routes focused on scenic coastal cities in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, allowing passengers to enjoy warm climates and picturesque landscapes during the winter season.

Summer sailings expanded into the Mediterranean, visiting popular destinations in Turkey, Greece, and surrounding regions. Travelers had the chance to explore vibrant cultures, ancient architecture, and beautiful beaches, all while enjoying a luxurious onboard experience. This combination of destinations provides a rich travel experience both at sea and on shore.

Unique Experiences for Travelers

Aroya Cruises is more than just a ship; it’s a floating cultural experience. Passengers have the opportunity to enjoy Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, participate in cultural activities, and engage in entertainment designed to reflect the region’s heritage.

Onshore excursions complement the onboard experiences, offering travelers the chance to visit historic cities, sample local delicacies, and explore natural attractions. From the ancient ports of Egypt to the scenic Greek Isles, each stop adds a layer of discovery to the cruise journey.

The cruise line has successfully created an environment where luxury meets culture, making it an attractive option for travelers who want both relaxation and enriching experiences.

Travel Tips for Planning Your Cruise

For travelers considering Aroya Cruises, timing and destination choices are key.

• Winter: Red Sea sailings offer warm weather and beautiful coastal scenery.
• Spring & Summer: Mediterranean routes provide the perfect blend of beach stops and cultural tours.
• Early Year: Arabian Gulf sailings allow travelers to experience emerging destinations and themed cruises.

Popular ports include Alexandria in Egypt, Istanbul and Bodrum in Turkey, and various Greek islands. These destinations are accessible and well-organized, allowing passengers to enjoy smooth and enriching excursions.

What’s Next for Aroya Cruises

Building on the success of its debut year, Aroya Cruises plans to expand further into the Arabian Gulf in 2026. New itineraries will include themed voyages, such as cultural, wellness, and sports-focused cruises. These offerings aim to attract a broader range of travelers and continue Saudi Arabia’s push to become a key player in global cruise tourism.

The cruise line’s growth reflects the Kingdom’s strategy to develop its tourism infrastructure and create unique travel experiences that appeal to international audiences. This approach positions Saudi Arabia as not only a destination for cultural exploration but also for luxurious sea voyages.

Why Global Travelers Should Consider Aroya Cruises

Aroya Cruises offers a fresh perspective on cruise travel, combining luxury, culture, and adventure. For travelers, it presents a new opportunity to explore the Red Sea, Arabian Gulf, and Mediterranean in comfort while experiencing Arabian hospitality at its finest.

Whether it’s your first cruise or your tenth, Aroya’s itineraries allow you to enjoy unique destinations, diverse cultures, and unparalleled onboard experiences. As Saudi Arabia continues to grow its tourism offerings, Aroya Cruises stands out as a must-experience voyage for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.